J Wade's blog: "Day by Day"

This morning, I was on my way to the Guitar Center for some strings and a few picks. Half way there, I stopped by a familiar gas station. I had another conversation about life, as I often do almost anywhere I go. This happened to be one of those times when the other person just had to let their story out.

I don't think she'll mind me mentioning her name, but she's Prudence. She's always a delight to talk to because she's so sweet and also humble. She was extremely burdened by the situation her little grandbaby is in. The little one was premature by about five weeks. By support of oxygen, the baby girl was struggling on her own. I was told that the little one would have to go without oxygen for about 48 hours before she could go home.

In the meantime, Prudence would go to visit the baby girl before and after work. However, Prudence was struggling because she wasn't able to go as much as she wanted to. She was worried, as we all would be. However, she told me that a few friends from her local church had supported her and would visit in the mean time to give her a peace of mind.

What was interesting was, Prudence actually apologized for telling me her little story, thinking that I would be offended that she would just 'drop' all of that on me. But, I could see the burden and pain in her eyes. She needed to get some of that pain out some way. I told her that she'll never have to apologize to me for talking about that little baby girl. Hearing that a little miracle needs help and is still fighting makes my heart burst. I can't do much, but I like to take little moments to think about that little one that I've never known myself because maybe, that can help in some way. Just talking to Prudence made her feel like there is still support out there when the world falls around her.

Sometimes, talking is worth a lot. But listening empathetically can help to build something greater than we can fathom.